how to create pcb design for rak3172-based lorawan® end-device using kicad

RAK3172 is a compact, low-power LoRaWAN module designed for long-range IoT applications. It supports standard AT commands for quick integration and can also run independently using RUI3. This eliminates the need for an external MCU, making it ideal for simple, efficient end-device designs.

In this guide, you'll learn how to design a custom PCB for a standalone LoRaWAN device using KiCad, with the RAK3172 as the core module. This serves as a practical starting point for building custom IoT hardware using open-source design tools.

Installation of KiCad (Version 9)

KiCad is an open-source EDA tool used to design schematics and PCBs. It's increasingly favored by engineers and makers for its robust features and active development community.

If you haven't installed KiCad yet, download it from their official website. Choose the appropriate installer for your operating system and follow the setup instructions.
 

Getting RAK3172 KiCad Files from Snapmagic

To create a PCB design for RAK3172, you need to have the schematic symbol and footprint layout for the RAK3172 LoRaWAN Module. You can download the compatible files from Snapmagic (formerly known as Snapeda).

 

The files include the schematic symbol, PCB footprint, and 3D step file. You need to select the correct EDA software and version, which in this case is KiCad. Download these files and save them on your PC. 

Adding the RAK3172 Schematic and PCB Layout to KiCad

Adding the schematic symbol and PCB footprint in KiCad is straightforward. KiCad allows you to organize libraries in several ways, whether by project, design, or other criteria. However, library management strategies are beyond the scope of this tutorial. For simplicity of this guide, files are kept in a single local directory.

To begin, open KiCad and click on Preferences. From there, you can add the schematic symbol for the RAK3172 LoRaWAN module under Manage Symbol Libraries and the PCB footprint.
 

Designing the Schematic

After saving the files in their designated locations on your PC, you can begin designing the schematic for the RAK3172 LoRaWAN module. This step involves navigating KiCad's schematic editor, including tasks like zooming, panning, placing components, wiring connections, and organizing the layout.

Here’s a complete schematic that includes all the essential parts:
 

Creating the PCB Layout

Since the PCB footprint for the RAK3172 has been added to KiCad, you can double-click the RAK3172 schematic symbol to configure the Footprint field. Navigate to the location of the footprint file named RAK3172.KiCad_mod.

In  KiCad, the file extension for PCB footprints is KiCad_mod, while the file extension for schematic symbols is KiCad_sym.

To begin your PCB layout, click Switch to PCB Editor. This action will link the schematic design to your PCB layout.

This will also allow you to switch between the schematic and PCB layout as needed. From here, you can begin your PCB layout. 

Generating Manufacturing Files

Once the PCB design is complete, generating the Gerber and drill files required by the PCB manufacturer is straightforward. Simply click on File and then select Fabrication Output. 

In this menu, you will find several options for generating production files. Select Gerbers, and within the Gerbers settings, make sure to also generate the drill files. The output files will be saved in the folder you specify. 

After the files are generated, compress the entire folder into a .zip file. This file will be submitted to your PCB manufacturer for fabrication. 
 

These are the files that you will be able to generate.

Uploading Gerber Files to JLCPCB

Once the zip file is generated, you can use these files as production files for your PCB manufacturer. In this guide, JLCPCB is used as an example. 

If the files are correct, you should be able to see the PCB design you created by uploading the zip file to the PCB manufacturer's website. Typically, you can simply drag the zip file or the raw Gerber files onto the website to immediately view a preview and receive an estimated cost.

Carl Rowan Carl is a multi-talent individual with a real flair for technology. His vast knowledge of power electronics products, sensors, and IoT give him an edge in performing outstandingly in technical field.

Updated September 18, 2025 00:12